Outgoing Australian High Commissioner to PNG Ms Deborah Stokes says PNG is a beautiful country

The outgoing Australian High Commissioner to PNG, Ms Deborah Stokes says she leaves the country having witnessed a number of positive developments.

Speaking on FM100’s talk back show on Monday, Ms Stokes said in her time in PNG she has seen the growing economic opportunities now available to PNG.

“It has been an exciting time for Papua New Guinea and when I look back on this, I can see tremendous change in Papua New Guinea especially with the economic opportunities from the PNG LNG project and further such projects on the horizon.”

Ms Stokes also welcomed the positive developments in improving the situation for women and girls in PNG and she praised the many Papua New Guineans who have strived to achieve this.

The High Commissioner described PNG as one of the most beautiful countries in the world and is confident PNG and Australia will continue to work together as trusted partners and close friends into the future.

“I’m incredibly fortunate to have travelled to many parts of Papua New Guinea and there is no doubt that Papua New Guinea is one of the most beautiful countries on earth and there is just so much beauty to see,” Ms Stokes said.